JNC,
This is Golf Architecture.
What would you say if I told you that the element of Riveira #10 could be likened to that of the Road Hole green? It, in fact, can be.
How? There is no Road Hole Bunker?
There doesn't have to be--the strategy is similar in the regard to the crown affect of the left side of the green, causing a shot to possible roll off, especially in the back of the green where the crown is even more severe. Our Golden Age architects were inspired by these features, as well as using different interpretations of them. In this case, in my simple and criticized drawing, you have some that say that the green complex itself is too big. How? I'm not building the Road Hole green, I'm building a green inspired by the Road Hole, only bigger and deeper to offer more pin-placements with different contours then the Road Hole.
Also, when was the last time you saw a "L"-shaped Road Hole green? while the green maybe somewhat bulging in its left-rear area, it is more of a splinter of a green.
I hope that makes sense. Obviously I was hoping to get ripped to shreds futher on my thoughts.(and words) But this is the best part of critique--everyone, including Rees Jones has an opinion. I love it when someone is on a GREAT course, and their critique of that GREAT course gets so intricate, and that their observation has finality--I laugh! Isn't the most controversal features worth more observation then just a one-time look and judgement?
Why it's as accurate as designing a golf hole from a flat featureless drawing! How am I supposed to know the truest features that make for the great golf? How am I to know that the hole has certain characteristics and traits that make it unique whn I'm seeing it without actually knowing the sites truest worth. We aren't talking one or two visits, we are talking several.
Just my thoughts, Merry Xmas!